Images Depicted Range in Maturity & Container Size
Pots & Decorations Not Included Unless Otherwise Stated
Tropical Elegance That Thrives Indoors with Minimal Effort
A Classic Palm for Any Space
Chamaedorea elegans, better known as the Parlor Palm or Neanthe Bella Palm, is one of the most beloved houseplants of all time — and for good reason. Its soft, feathery fronds and compact growth habit bring an instant sense of calm, sophistication, and tropical charm to any interior. This elegant palm thrives in low-light environments where few other plants can succeed, making it an ideal choice for homes, offices, and apartments.
Compact Growth with Big Impact
The Parlor Palm grows slowly to about 3–4 feet tall indoors, forming graceful clusters of arching green fronds. Its airy texture complements any decor style, from minimalist to traditional. Despite its refined appearance, it’s surprisingly resilient — tolerating low light, inconsistent watering, and average household humidity.
Air-Purifying, Pet-Safe, and Low-Maintenance
This palm doesn’t just look good — it’s good for your environment, too. NASA research lists the Parlor Palm as one of the top houseplants for air purification, filtering out toxins and improving indoor air quality. It’s also non-toxic to pets, making it a safe and stylish choice for households with cats or dogs.
The Perfect Beginner’s Indoor Plant
Whether you’re new to houseplants or looking to expand your indoor jungle, the Parlor Palm is nearly foolproof. It grows well in indirect light, tolerates occasional neglect, and adapts easily to any room. Its timeless appeal and low maintenance make it one of the best indoor plants you can own.
| Hardiness Zone: | 9-11 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 36 to 48 Inches |
| Mature Width: | 24 to 36 Inches |
| Classification: | Green foliage |
| Sunlight: | Fluorescent light to full sun (if outdoors) |
| Habit: | Upright |
| Flower Color: | Brown inflorescence |
| Foliage: | Dark green, glossy |
| Soil Condition: | Likes to stay dry |
| Water Requirements: | Likes to dry out between watering |
| Uses: | Hardy plant to keep indoors or outside |
How to Care for Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Before you buy a Parlor Palm Plant, make sure to read about the recommmended care instructions to keep this plant healthy and thriving.
What is the best light for Parlor Palm Plants?
Parlor Palm Plants will tolerate fluorescent light, but prefer bright light from a windowsill for several hours. Eastern or western facing windows generally provide enough light for the Neanthe Bella Palm Plants to be happy.
What is the best soil for Neanthe Bella Palm Plants?
Parlor Palm Plants need a very well draining soil, and prefer to have dry conditions. Adding sand to potting mix or mixing sand with existing soil outdoors helps with drainage. Avoiding an area with clay soil if planting outdoors would contribute to better drainage. Mixing in sand and avoiding clay are both beneficial steps to avoiding root rot.
How do I water Neanthe Bella Palm Plants?
Parlor Palm Plants need to dry out between watering, and they are prone to root rot and death. If you're unsure about whether or not to water, do not water. The soil should be almost completely dry before watering again in containers. Outdoors, Neanthe Bella Palm Plants should be located in an area that drains very well, as they will not tolerate sitting in water for extended periods. Sandy soil or mixing sand with the potting mix to transplant is generally a good idea to encourage drainage.
How do I fertilize Parlor Palm Plants?
Any all purpose, fertilizer will work for Parlor Palm Plants. Indoor houseplant fertilizers fall into two groups: water soluble, liquid quick release, and granular, slow release fertilizers. Jack's Classic Indoor plant food works well as a powder, quick release fertilizer that is mixed with water to quickly provide nutrients to a plant that has been in a container for an extended time. Osmocote Indoor/Outdoor is an option as a granular, slow release fertilizer that can be applied while potting and planting. Any type of fertilizer offers nutrients that help plants with the transition to a new environment. All of these fertilizers may be used when planting Neanthe Bella Palms indoors or outdoors. Keep in mind that Neanthe Bella Palms tend to grow very slowly, even if they are fed regularly.